Olivia Newton-John - Hopelessly Devoted to You (2018)
In today’s review, I look back on the life, legacy, and endearing love of Olivia Newton-John as I attempt a #positive review of her 2018 biographical drama, Hopelessly Devoted to You.
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When the news broke of the devastating passing of Olivia Newton-John in 2022, she left behind over 50 years of stellar hits and memorable acting roles that are still revered to this day. The Australian star had undoubtedly left a lasting legacy that few could ever hope to match up to. In 2018, reflecting on the accomplishments of her life, was the subject of a two-part miniseries to answer why…
Here's a little behind the scenes moment from Dead Man's Chest, because I don't know about you, but I definitely need the distraction (I have a very big exam coming up in 2 days so taking a little break from studying never hurt anyone). Also, Nathan's LEGS!!! Enjoy!
After the marriage proposal that Dot called “just perfect”, the two love birds lived happily ever after. Well, not quite so, yet. In Hugh’s mind, his sweetheart – naturally – would want to quit her job and be a stay-at-home wife and mother. Dot, on the other hand, hadn’t even thought about her job situation until Hugh mentioned it. I like how the show handled the struggle here, which is quite realistic between young couples, whether it was back in 1920s or even modern days. They were lucky that the topic was brought up now rather than a week before the wedding or, worse, after the blissful honeymoon.
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p.s. Today (October 8) is Hugo Johnstone-Burt’s birthday. His portrayal of Constable Hugh Collins was “just perfect” (like Hugh’s marriage proposal version 2), a young lad who adored his fiancée wholeheartedly but failed to support her desire to be an independent modern woman. At times you wanted to slap him (to quote Dot in S3E3 Murder and Mozzarella); meanwhile, you sympathized as he painstakingly tried to understand.
Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries ‘Queen of the Flowers’ has had me bawling tonight. My heart breaks for every single one of the young girls in this episode. It’s so heavy to watch! 😭
The sexual abuse of two of the girls, the blackmail one was held to and the maternal trauma and desperation to protect her mother from Jane, the tears have been flowing. Maybe it’s because I was a teenager the same age as these girls when I first watched the episode almost a decade ago, but now that I am significantly older I see them as the abused and mistreated children they are. They’re so little in my eyes upon this rewatch. I can’t stomach the way Kitty and Rose were treated, what Jane had to witness with her mother’s mental health struggles.
Phryne’s full commitment to them and their wellbeing is gorgeous; she’s so protective of them and she wants them to speak their truth and get the justice and resolutions they deserve. She’s a safe person for them and they know that when they come to her, that they will be believed and loved. These girls need that so much.
As much as I loved the show as a teenager, there were some parts of the storyline that went completely over my head because I was far too young to truly understand the gravity of them. I am glad I’m going back to watch this extraordinary series as an adult. I’m seeing it through new eyes and the nuances and humanity side of it I am totally computing now.
Other moments that broke my heart: 1) Phryne’s worry when Jane and Rose couldn’t be found in the morning. 2) Jane’s mother losing control of her own mind, and Jane needing to bring her back to earth but struggling with this because she’s only a child, damn it! This is too much for her! 3) When Phryne; upon realising Kitty was murdered by a significantly larger man, feels guilty for not teaching the girls actual skills they need to survive life.
Quotes: “She’s not mean. She just needs me. I’m sorry I didn’t tell you.” ~ Jane (Ruby Rees was such an incredible actress at this age. I just want to hug Jane! Little darling!)
Part 12 of the series in which Phryne and Jack are playing matchmakers to Dot and Hugh - in collaboration with @anni-yanni
12/13 Dead Air (S2E11)
Dot is a modern woman. Or, at least on her way to becoming one. Everyone knows that. Except Hugh. Well, it's about time Hugh embraced that fact if he wants to embrace married life. 💖💍
Music and clip bits in this video:
1. John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John - You're the one that I want (Grease Soundtrack) (original mix)
2. My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002)
3. R.E.M. - Losing My Religion
4. Family Guy - We Love You, Conrad (S7E14)
5. SpongeBob SquarePants time cards number 28, 90, 177
6. That '70s Show - It's a Wonderful Life (S4E01)
7. Please Don't Eat the Daisies (1960)
8. Al Bowlly, Lew Stone & Monseigneur Band - My Woman
9. Meghan Trainor - Badass Woman (original mix)
10. The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad! (1988)